Leo Anthony Sandoval, Jr.

Leo Anthony Sandoval, Jr., 39, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, in his hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Porfirio and Corina Sandoval, uncles: Daniel Sandoval, Gerald Cuellar, aunt Geraldine McGuinness, grandmother Josephine Dominguez, and niece Shyanne Sandoval.

Leo is survived by his wife Christina Sandoval; six children: Leo Sandoval III (Melanie), Laveya Sandoval (Ediel), Kaydence Sandoval, Giovanni Sandoval, Osiris Sandoval, Chance Sandoval; granddaughter Elizeth Paredes; parents Jeannette and Leo Sandoval, Sr.; grandfather Tony Cuellar; brother Gabriel Sandoval (Jeanette); sisters: Melissa Sandoval (Miguel), Tina Sandoval (Joseph), Martha Sandoval (Obie), Tiyanna Gilando (Javier); close friend Amber Salazar; as well as 11 nieces, six nephews, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He lived a life marked by strong family ties, a generous spirit, and a personality that could light up any room. Leo was the kind of man who made an impression wherever he went, not only because of his humor and energy, but because of the genuine care he showed for the people in his life.

Leo was a man of many interests and talents, and he found joy in the simple and meaningful things that made life memorable. He loved working on cars and spent countless hours tinkering, fixing, and exploring how things worked. He enjoyed taking things apart, even if they did not always make it back together in the same way. His playful nature often showed through in his shenanigans, and he had a special talent for keeping those around him laughing, shaking their heads, and smiling all at once. He was known for taking his dad’s battery from his truck, a memory that reflected both his mischievous spirit and the close, familiar bonds he shared with his family.

Leo had a deep appreciation for the music and tastes that brought him comfort and joy. He loved listening to oldies, and the sounds of those classic songs were part of the atmosphere of his life. He also had a true love for cereal, and it was one of those small pleasures that brought him happiness at any time of day. He enjoyed eating meatloaf and tacos, and he was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan. These favorites were part of the personality that made Leo uniquely himself, and they will be remembered fondly by those who shared meals, conversations, and game days with him. 

Above all else, Leo’s children were his greatest accomplishment. He took immense pride in being their father and found his purpose in life in striving to be a good dad, a good husband, and a good son. Those who knew him understood that his heart was centered on his family. He was a proud mama’s boy, and that bond was one of the most important relationships in his life. His love for his mother was evident in the way he spoke, the way he carried himself, and the way he valued the role of family in everything he did. His commitment to his family was one of the clearest reflections of who he was.

Leo was loving, caring, and always willing to help when someone needed him. He could be a clown when the moment called for laughter, and he could also be irritating and chaotic in the way that only someone deeply loved can be. Those traits, along with his helpful, handy, and crafty nature, made him unforgettable. He had a way of turning ordinary moments into memorable ones, and his presence brought a sense of life and movement into every gathering. He was the kind of person who could make a difficult day easier simply by being himself.

In addition to his many interests, Leo enjoyed collecting coins, jewelry, watches, baseball cards, and knives. These collections reflected his curiosity, his appreciation for detail, and his enjoyment of things that carried meaning, history, and character. He valued the stories behind the items he kept, and his collections became part of the many ways he expressed his personality and interests. They were a reflection of a man who noticed the world around him and found value in the things others might overlook.

Leo Anthony Sandoval, Jr. will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his sense of humor, his hardworking nature, and the love he gave so freely. His life was one of connection, laughter, and purpose. Though his time on earth was far too short, the impact he made will remain in the hearts of his loved ones forever. His memory will continue to live on through the children he adored, the family he cherished, and the many stories that will be told about his life, his personality, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Leo's Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 6:00pm Salazar Mortuary located 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 7:00pm. Final Viewing will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 10:00am at Salazar Mortuary. Service will begin at 10:00am. Leo will be laid to rest at 11:30am at San Jose de Armijo Cemetery located 2957 Arenal Road SW, 87121.

Pallbearers will be Leo Sandoval III, Bronson Vigil, Gabriel Sandoval, James Hardage-Sandoval, Martin McGuinness, and Carlos Lopez.

Honorable Pallbearers will be Gabriel Sandoval, Shae Cuellar, and Miguel Arteaga. 

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